Doing the Right Thing

For this week, we are going to try something different. This will be our first guest blog entry and to do the honors is my partner in education, as well as life, Elizabeth McGrath. Looking at the amazing series of news stories streaming out of Happy Valley, otherwise known as State College, PA, over the past several weeks, I was inclined to dedicate some of this space to sharing some of my views about the incident and its rippling aftereffects. However, after listening to what Mrs. McGrath had to say, I happily deferred..... Elizabeth..you're on... :)

Normally, I reserve comments regarding recent events until all sensationalism subsides. In reference to the recent news involving Penn State, I will make an exception. The following is not about football. It is not necessarily about Joe Paterno, Jerry Sandusky, the Second, Third our Fourth Miles. The entire scope is about "Doing the Right Thing" honoring and protecting children. Despite age differences, experiences, and vocations in life, we in the world are all someone's child.

It is acceptable, commendable, and expected to call authorities in a time of need. Without coaching (and please excuse the word choice), common sense prevails that an ambulance is called for medical emergencies and the police in regard to criminal investigation. The general subjects appropriate to treatment are "who", "what", "when", and "how." The "whys" and particulars to the behavior vary with each inquiry. Blackened eyes, bruises, and broken bones do not happen alone. Someone and something inflicted the pain.

The same thought applies to sexual abuse--who, what, and when. Based on several published documents, Sandusky first abused his authority and position during 1996 to 1998 with a participant in his Second Mile organization. With courage, the young man told his mother, who immediately reported the incident to campus officials. Criminal charges were not filed, though investigators eavesdropped on conversations between Sandusky and the victim's mother where the coach reportedly expressed remorse and shame.

Coach Sandusky retired from the university the following year but maintained entry to the university campus and facilities, after the first allegation? Reporting the incidents to a superior was the most crucial dimension to the case. Those who first reported sexual abuse needed to double and triple check on investigations. Now, it is almost 15 years later and there are eight victims.

What is the right thing? Tell. Document and take every piece of evidence to the police as well, not just university police or college officials. This advice includes every instance of assault--from child abuse, spousal/relationship abuse, to college date rape. The right thing includes additional safeguards in following through each report, training all who work with children from preschool to university for signs of all abuse. When it comes to the right thing for children, break the chain of command and tell.

The modern point of view with any type of activity is to 'not snitch.' That is a huge barrier to overcome. The right thing is to not think of the revenue generated by names and sports brands. If speaking the truth prevents further abuse but decreases revenue, then fine.

Young man, you did the right thing by telling your mother. Thank you for your courage. Mother, you did the right thing by reporting the abuse to the university. Again, thank you for reporting the incident. As for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, university officials and community: how could it grow to at least six additional known reports of abuse without anyone doing the right thing?